Divine Justice Meets the Tools of Modern Power
As the world becomes increasingly dependent on artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, digital currencies, biotechnology, and global communications, many wonder: Will Imam al-Mahdi (peace be upon him) — the 12th and awaited Imam — use advanced technology in his governance?
The answer, based on Islamic texts and logical reflection, is yes — but with divine wisdom, purpose, and ethical restraint. Imam Mahdi’s rule will not reject progress; it will purify and redirect it. Technology will no longer be used to control, exploit, or divide humanity. Instead, it will serve truth, justice, and the unity of creation.
Technology: A Tool, Not a Master
In Islam, knowledge and innovation are not rejected. They are embraced — as long as they serve divine values. Imam Ali (AS) once said:
“Science is the lost property of the believer; wherever he finds it, he is more worthy of it.”
~Nahj al-Balagha
Imam Mahdi will likely make use of the most advanced technologies available, but unlike today’s powers, he will not be ruled by them. He will control them through divine wisdom, ensuring they are:
- Ethically used
- Spiritually grounded
- Aligned with justice and mercy
1. Artificial Intelligence and Governance
Today’s governments are already experimenting with AI-based decision-making. Under Imam Mahdi’s leadership, AI could be used for:
- Speeding up judicial and legal processes
- Managing resource distribution and public welfare
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in governance
But unlike modern AI systems, which often reflect the biases and injustices of their creators, any system under Mahdi’s rule will be rooted in divine justice, truth, and protection of human dignity. It will never replace moral judgment, and it will never control the human soul.
2. Global Communication and Instant Outreach
Imam Mahdi’s call to truth will reach the entire world — not just by armies or word of mouth, but likely by miraculous means and advanced communication.
Some narrations mention that when he appears, everyone on Earth will hear his voice, in their own language.
“When our Qā’im rises… all people will hear his voice, each in their own tongue.”
~Bihar al-Anwar (vol. 52)
This may refer to divine miracle, or to instant global broadcasting — through satellite, internet, or something more advanced. Under his rule, communication will be transparent, universal, and truthful — unlike today’s media, which often manipulates and divides.
3. Surveillance, but Without Tyranny
Modern governments use surveillance technology — cameras, drones, facial recognition — to control people, often violating privacy and freedom. Imam Mahdi’s use of any such technology will be radically different:
- It will not spy on innocent people
- It will be used only to protect the oppressed and uncover hidden injustice
- It will never become a tool of fear or authoritarian control
His knowledge is not limited to what devices can capture. He is divinely guided (ma’sum) and supported by angels and unseen forces. His insight surpasses any software or sensor.
4. Energy and Environment: Clean and Harmonious
Technology under Mahdi will prioritize clean, sustainable energy. Fossil fuels, which have polluted the Earth and caused wars, will likely be replaced by:
- Renewable energy sources (solar, wind, perhaps more advanced forms)
- Technologies that are non-exploitative and eco-friendly
- Innovations that enhance human life without harming the planet
Under his leadership, technology will work in harmony with nature — not in competition with it.
5. Medicine and Health Technologies
Healthcare in the time of Imam Mahdi is expected to be:
- Universally accessible
- Spiritually integrated with material treatment
- Possibly aided by miraculous cures and divine healing, especially during the return of Prophet Jesus (AS)
While modern medical technology may be used, its profit-driven abuse will end. Cures will not be hidden for money. Genetic manipulation, cloning, and unethical research will be abolished.
6. Finance and Digital Economies
Many believe Mahdi will end the systems of interest (riba), hoarding, and economic slavery. Digital currency, blockchain, or futuristic financial tools may exist under his rule, but:
- Wealth will be distributed fairly
- Greed will be curbed
- Markets will be transparent
- Hoarded wealth will be returned to the people
Mahdi’s economy will be one of equity, simplicity, and access — not exploitation.
7. Military Technology and Global Security
If there are wars during the Mahdi’s rise, he will fight them ethically, with divine permission. His military strength will be unmatched — not only by weaponry, but by:
- Divine support (e.g. angels, unseen forces)
- The return of Prophet Jesus (AS)
- The moral collapse of enemy regimes
Weapons of mass destruction, unjust wars, and human suffering will no longer define military power. Peace, not conquest, will be the outcome of his campaigns.
8. Spiritual and Ethical Framework for All Technology
The most important aspect of Mahdi’s use of technology is that it will be ethically governed. Every invention, every system, and every tool will be judged by a divine standard:
- Does it uphold justice?
- Does it serve the people?
- Does it align with the will of God?
If the answer is no, it will not be used — no matter how advanced it is. Mahdi’s leadership is not about showcasing power, but restoring balance between creation and Creator.
Final Thoughts: Divine Justice in a Technological Age
Imam Mahdi’s government will not fear technology, nor will it idolize it. It will redeem it.
The 12th Imam will liberate technology from corporate greed, surveillance abuse, and political manipulation, and return it to its rightful purpose: to serve truth, to benefit humanity, and to glorify the Creator.
Just as he will purify the Earth from tyranny, he will purify the tools we’ve built — turning weapons into shields, and machines into means of healing.
